A 70-year-old woman was attacked and killed by her family dog while sunbathing in her backyard on Friday, June 2. 

This tragic event marks the fifth dog-related death in the UK this year.

The dog assaulted the woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, at her residence in Bedworth, Warwickshire, resulting in her death. The woman’s 49-year-old daughter tried to intervene and shield her mother but failed to prevent the lethal mauling and sustained injuries herself in the process.

Following the incident, the daughter received medical attention for her non-critical injuries. The police detained both her and her 52-year-old spouse on charges related to keeping a dog breed prohibited under UK legislation. Their specific identities are yet to be revealed.

The precise breed of the dog involved in the assault has not been confirmed. According to a neighbor, the dog was said to be a rare breed, with the owner claiming that only six of its kind existed in the country. The neighbor, who chose to remain unnamed, noted that the dog bore a resemblance to a Bulldog-Mastiff mix.

The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 in the UK prohibits or restricts specific dog breeds and types due to public safety concerns related to dog attacks. Typically banned or tightly regulated breeds or types in the UK include American pit bull terriers, Japanese Tosas, Dogo Argentinos, and Fila Brasileiros.

Superintendent Sutherland Lane of Warwickshire Police provided reassurances to the public, stating that such dog attacks are uncommon and extended sympathy towards the community.